DIY Free People Denim Shirt Hack

When it comes to DIY fashion, simple ideas can go a long way. It doesn’t have to be all about the fancy techniques or intricate details. Instead, it can feature basic transformations that highlight your personal style. This easy DIY hack inspired by a $396 button down shirt at Free People is the perfect example. The techniques used in this project can be applied to any long-sleeved shirt. It doesn’t hurt that it’s an inexpensive way to re-purpose old clothing, too!Things You’ll Need

Long-sleeved shirt
Scrap paper
Scissors
Flower venice lace trim
Leaf venice lace trim
Matching thread and hand-sewing needle
Fabric glueStep 1
Cut the flower and leaf lace trims into separate pieces. Focus on the most significant shapes of the design. For best results, cut each trim in a way that works best for its unique design. You should have a main flower and several leaf and stem components.Step 2
Rearrange the pieces to form a flower with a stem. Again, the number of required pieces will depend on the specific lace designs used.Step 3
Cut a piece of paper. It should measure the same width as one sleeve.Step 4
Insert the paper into one sleeve of the shirt.Step 5
Slide the paper to the elbow area of the sleeve. This will prevent fabric glue from seeping through to the other side.

If you’re unsure where your elbow lands, try the shirt on. Mark your elbow with a pencil or a safety pin.Step 6
Attach the lace flower with a small amount of fabric glue. A few dots here and there will do the trick.Step 7
Adhere the stem and leaf pieces.
Let dry for 30 minutes. In the mean time, you can glue lace pieces to the other sleeve.Step 8
Sew a few stitches along the edges of the lace components. This will add extra security to odd-shaped edges, which are more likely to curl up.Step 9
To complete a full stitch, you’ll have to slide your hand inside the sleeve to push the needle back through the fabric.Step 10
Repeat Steps 8–9 on the other sleeve. Set aside overnight to ensure that the fabric glue is completely dry.
Once the glue has dried, remove the paper inserts. Your new shirt is ready to show off.
To spice up your creation, add extra elements such as studs or rhinestones. The lace trim appliquè can be decorated to your heart’s content. Just have fun with it!